Planning a military move can be one of the most stressful parts of service life, but with the right preparation and a reliable moving company, you can make the process much smoother. If you’re stationed in or around Memphis and facing a Permanent Change of Station (PCS) or Personally Procured Move (PPM), understanding the process and your options is key.
This guide breaks down everything you need to know about military moves from Memphis, from allowances and reimbursements to choosing the best movers Memphis has to offer.
How Do Military Moves Work from Memphis?
Military relocations, or PCS moves, are handled through the Defense Personal Property System (DPS), which helps coordinate moves for service members and their families. Once your PCS orders arrive, you’ll need to log into the DPS portal to schedule your move. From there, you’ll choose between a government-arranged move—where the military hires movers for you—or a PPM, where you handle the move yourself and get reimbursed.
Many service members stationed at bases near Memphis, such as the Naval Support Activity Mid-South, work with movers in Memphis who are experienced in handling military relocations. These companies understand the strict timelines and documentation requirements that come with PCS orders.
What’s Covered in a PCS Move from Memphis?
A standard PCS move from Memphis covers the transportation of your household goods, professional gear, and family travel expenses. The military pays for:
- Packing, loading, and unloading of household goods
- Transportation to your new duty station
- Temporary storage (up to 90 days, in most cases)
- Disassembly and reassembly of basic furniture
However, certain items like boats, ATVs, and outdoor structures are not typically covered. Working with top-rated movers Memphis who specialize in PCS moves ensures you understand exactly what’s included and what you’ll need to arrange separately.
How Do I Choose a Moving Company for My Military Relocation from Memphis?
Choosing the right movers can make or break your experience. Start by looking for long-distance moving companies Memphis that are certified to handle military relocations.
Reputable movers will:
- Have experience with military moves and DPS processes
- Provide transparent quotes and guaranteed pickup/delivery windows
- Offer full-value protection and damage claim assistance
- Be licensed and insured (check with the FMCSA for verification)
Cord Moving and Storage, one of the best movers Memphis has for military families, has over 100 years of experience helping service members relocate efficiently and stress-free.
What’s My Weight Allowance for Military Moves from Memphis?
Weight allowances are determined by your rank and whether you have dependents. For example, an E-5 with dependents may have an allowance around 9,000 pounds, while an O-3 with dependents could receive 14,500 pounds. Exceeding your allowance means you’ll need to pay for the extra weight out of pocket.
Your movers in Memphis can help you estimate the total weight of your belongings before the move to avoid unexpected expenses.
Can I Use Any Long-Distance Mover for PCS Moves from Memphis?
Not every mover qualifies for military PCS moves. You must use a mover approved by the Department of Defense (DoD) if you choose the government-arranged option. However, if you’re doing a PPM, you can use any long-distance movers Memphis provides, as long as they meet DoD requirements for documentation and weight tickets.
Always confirm that the mover is reputable and experienced with military moves before signing a contract.
What’s Not Covered in Military Moves from Memphis?
The military covers most standard moving expenses, but several things fall outside reimbursement:
- Packing materials you buy on your own
- Extra stops or storage beyond the authorized duration
- Oversized or restricted items
- Damaged or lost items due to personal negligence
It’s important to review your entitlement documents carefully. A professional team like Cord Moving and Storage can walk you through the fine print to help you avoid unexpected costs.
How Do I File a Claim for Damaged Items During a Military Move from Memphis?
If any of your belongings are damaged or lost during transit, you can file a claim through the Defense Personal Property System. The process typically involves:
- Documenting the damage immediately upon delivery.
- Submitting a claim within 75 days.
- Providing proof of value or receipts, if available.
Using top-rated movers Memphis residents trust reduces your risk of damage, as these companies adhere to strict quality standards for military moves.
What’s a PPM Move, and Should I Do One from Memphis?
A Personally Procured Move (PPM) gives you full control of your relocation—you hire long-distance movers Memphis service members recommend or rent your own truck, then get reimbursed by the government.
Benefits of a PPM include:
- Greater flexibility in scheduling
- Potential profit if you move under budget
- Ability to choose your preferred moving company
However, PPMs require more effort, documentation, and upfront payment. If you have the time and want to manage your move your way, it can be a good option.
How Much Does the Military Reimburse for Moves from Memphis?
Reimbursement depends on the total weight of your shipment and the distance between duty stations. In a PPM, you’ll typically receive 95% of what it would have cost the government to move you. For example, if a government-arranged move would cost $6,000, you could be reimbursed about $5,700.
Keep in mind that your expenses—truck rental, fuel, and labor—must be properly documented with receipts and certified weight tickets.
What Documents Do I Need for a PCS Move from Memphis?
Before your move, gather the following documents:
- PCS orders
- Weight tickets (for PPMs)
- Receipts for expenses
- Inventory list of household goods
- Proof of insurance coverage
Having these ready ensures a smooth process whether you’re coordinating with long-distance moving companies Memphis or completing a PPM move.
Ready to Start Your Military Move from Memphis?
Let Cord Moving and Storage, one of the best movers Memphis trusts for military relocations, make your PCS or PPM stress-free. Our team of long-distance movers Memphis experts ensures every step, from packing to delivery, is handled with precision, professionalism, and care.
Contact us today for a free, no-obligation military moving quote!
Frequently Asked Questions
How far in advance should I schedule my military move from Memphis?
Try to schedule your move at least 4–6 weeks before your report date. Peak season (May through August) books up quickly.
Can Cord Moving and Storage handle both local and long-distance military moves?
Yes. As one of the top-rated movers Memphis offers, Cord Moving and Storage provides both local and cross-country military relocation services.
Are packing and unpacking services included in a PCS move?
Yes, most government-arranged PCS moves include professional packing and unpacking. For PPMs, you can choose whether to hire professional packers or handle it yourself.
How do I ensure my claim for damaged items is approved?
Take detailed photos, note damages on the delivery receipt, and submit your claim within 75 days using the DPS portal.
Does Cord Moving and Storage offer temporary storage for military families?
Absolutely. Cord provides secure, climate-controlled storage for short and long-term needs, perfect for service members between duty stations.